The Game Gate VU is an upright arcade machine designed to convert an Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 video game console or a PC into a commercially playable video game. Unlike traditional arcade machines, the Gate Gate allows the operator or player to change the game being played by simply changing the game CD. The Game Gate works by time played, and is not a system designed to charge by skill. This means that novice players will find great value in the system and have more time to play many more of their favourite game titles.

An LED at the top of the Game Gate shows a scrolling message to attract players. One or two players can play at a time using the handheld controllers attached to the system. Operator sets the charge per minute for one or two players (two players typically costing more than one). Player inserts currency by coin/token or bill, and time is added. LED display will show the remaining time and warn players when the time is running low by flashing the illuminated pushbuttons on the control panel. Time can be added at any time by the player by inserting more currency. When time runs out, the player is given a short period of time (set by the operator) to add time. When this timer expires, the game system will reset and return to player attract mode. Controls will not function until money is inserted.